Hi all! My name is Michelle. I've been flirting with the idea of starting a VA business for a little over a year now. I had done some preliminary research, but I'm decided to take the plunge!

My husband is in the military, so we move around more than normal and possibly at the drop of a hat (which is what happened this last time...) I'm finding it very frustrating to have to find a new job in a new city all the time. This will give me the freedom that I need to maintain my own career while adjusting my life for his. Plus, when he's deployed I can visit family and spend time with them while still working! I am so stinking excited!!

I'm also about to curl up in a ball and cry as I try to sort through all the ins and outs and need to dos. I'll be begging pathetically for help in just about every area of the forum. Current woe: websites, domains, and forming an LLC. *sigh*

I'm so excited that I found the forum and I know I'll get a ton of help and support. Can't wait to get to know everyone!

Welcome Michelle,

You have come to the right place for great information and support. I planned my business for a year, my choice only. I launched last month on April 9, 2010. I am working with a potential client now. So I am excited as well.

I wish you the best in your new journey in life and I am sure you will do well. I look forward to seeing you around the forums.

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LaVida Harris
The Moment is Yours

Hi Michelle,

While it does all seem overwhelming at first, it does get easier. You will find some great advice here. I see you already have your biz name so I'd say you have one of the biggest steps behind you. As far as domains and website go, there are so many different places to choose from to host your domain and site. Ultimately, you have to choose what is best for you, it just takes some research to figure it all out. So take a deep breath and just take it all one day at a time and it will all fall into place.

Best of luck!

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Carol Mikel
Precision Secretarial

Welcome Michelle! You've found the right place for support and information - as I am just starting up this forum has been an excellent source of information!!!

And like Carol said - you've gotten one of the hardest parts out of the way - choosing a name!!!

Jen

Hi Michelle,

You won't find a better resource for starting your own biz than VAF! I recommend this site to people who are starting their own biz even if it isn't a VA biz. There is so much great info for any type of start up biz.

With your military situation this could be the perfect career solution for you!

Good luck!

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Lezly Harrison
Laserdog Productions - Code that Doesn't Bite

Hello and welcome Michelle!
It's totally understandable that you have so many questions, but I think you'll find once you have a game plan in place you'll feel much less scattered.

Definitely download the Getting Started as a VA packet and read through it. There is a workbook in there to help you start to organize your ideas, thoughts, and first steps.

Regarding info on an LLC, etc. check out the list of VAF archived events and look for the chat on LLC Basics - there is some great info there to help you sort out the what's and why's of registering your company officially.

Wishing you much luck in reaching your new business goals!

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I like you guys already!! Between your reassurances and about an hour of kickboxing, I'm feeling downright calm!

Thanks!

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Michelle
Virtually Effortless

Michelle,
Welcome to the group! I just wanted to say that it is so very possible to do well in this business. I have signed on two new clients in the past 2 days, spoke with someone tonight that is very interested in my services, and am speaking with 2 more retainer clients next week and a possible project only client. If you network and get your name out there the sky is the limit! And what a great opportunity for you moving around so much. You will never run out of new local small businesses to assist!

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Serita Diana, the List 2 Close Assistant
REVA Academy

Awesome people, awesome place. You will not find more information and people willing to give of themselves and their resources to help others succeed. This place is priceless! Best of luck and much success in your new endeavor.

Doug

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Only The Best www.specialtyassistants.com

Michelle, welcome to our great community. While it can be overwhelming, Tess has provided resources on all you need to get started. There are also other military VA's so I am sure they can give you great advice and support as they are in the same boat as you.
Best of luck to you and hope to see you around a very long time.

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Lee Drozak
My Office Assistant